Contracts Specialist II

Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy

. Independently draft, negotiate, and finalize research-related agreements .

Posted 10/3/2026full-timeHouston • Texas • United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $72,600 - $92,500 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in drafting, negotiating, and finalizing research-related agreements while ensuring compliance with university policies and regulatory requirements. Possesses strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills to effectively manage complex contractual issues and facilitate interactions with stakeholders.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Contract NegotiationResearch AdministrationIntellectual Property ManagementMicrosoft Office SuiteAdvanced Communication Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Drafting AgreementsNegotiating ContractsUnderstanding of Intellectual PropertyContracts and Grants AdministrationRegulatory Compliance

Soft Skills

Analytical SkillsProblem-Solving SkillsOrganizational SkillsInterpersonal SkillsService-Oriented Skills

Tools & Technologies

University SystemsDepartmental Systems

Certifications & Qualifications

RTTPCLPCRA

Industry Keywords

Research IntegrityConflicts of InterestExport ControlMaterial Transfer AgreementsNon-Disclosure AgreementsData Use AgreementsIndustry Sponsored Research

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Independently draft, negotiate, and finalize research-related agreements
Negotiate industry sponsored research, material transfer, non-disclosure, data use, and industry-funded subcontract agreements
Negotiate intellectual property, publication rights, confidentiality, indemnification, and invoicing terms
Identify contractual and policy issues involving research integrity, conflicts of interest, export control, and accounting
Escalate issues to appropriate university officials and follow through until resolved
Interpret and explain contract terms and conditions to students, faculty, and staff
Resolve complex contractual problems during negotiations with OTT team members, investigators, staff, and industry sponsors
Collect and document internal approvals before contract execution
Maintain complete records of agreement drafts, correspondence, and internal approvals
Facilitate interactions with university research administration offices
Assist in revising standard agreements to reflect policy, regulatory, and legal changes
Develop client-service improvements and assist with training delivery for team members, faculty, and client groups
Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree
2+ years experience in research, research administration, or intellectual property management
Additional related experience may substitute for the education requirement on an equivalent year-for-year basis
Additional related education may substitute for the experience requirement on an equivalent year-for-year basis
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn university and departmental systems
Ability to independently draft, negotiate, and conclude industry research agreements
Understanding of intellectual property and licensing issues related to industry sponsored research
Understanding of university research environments, policies, industry practices, and regulatory requirements
Experience with contracts and grants administration
Ability to negotiate effectively with external university and industry partners
Advanced communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Strong organizational, prioritization, interpersonal, and service-oriented skills
Ability to work independently and seek assistance when needed
Preferred: experience in a university setting or negotiating research-related agreements with universities
Preferred: advanced STEM degree or J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
Preferred: RTTP, CLP, or CRA certification

Benefits

Comp & perks

Hybrid work arrangement combining in-office and remote work
Flexible work arrangements under Rice policy 440
Exempt salaried position
Reasonable accommodations for qualified persons with disabilities